Amos “Dutch” Sawyer, 78, Navy veteran, D&E worker

Amos "Dutch" Sawyer, 78, of Denver, died on Thursday, March 7, 2013, at Ephrata Manor, after a long, courageous battle with Alzheimer’s.

He was born in Clay Township and later resided in West Cocalico Township. He was the son of the late Jesse and Martha (Johns) Sawyer and was the husband of Pauline (Pannebecker) Sawyer. He was a member of Mellingers Lutheran Church in Schoeneck. He and his wife celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary on June 18, 2010.

He enlisted in the Unites States Navy in 1952 and served for four years. He worked in the construction field for M.E. Gerhart & Sons in Schoeneck and in January of 1987, he began working for D&E Communications in the maintenance department until his retirement.

Dutch was a devoted husband and father. He enjoyed spending time with his family and loved watching his children and grandchildren play sports. His hobbies included woodworking, hunting, fishing, golfing, bowling and gardening. He was an avid Phillies and Eagles fan. Dutch was also a member of the Cocalico Sportsmen’s Association and a member of the Schoeneck Fire Company where he enjoyed working their annual carnival and bingo events. He will be missed by all.

In addition to his wife, he is survived by his children: Michael, husband of Julie (Hess) Sawyer of Ephrata; Douglas, husband of Amy (Englert) Sawyer of Denver; and Steven, husband of Jolene (Haws) Sawyer of Stevens; six grandchildren: Elle, Wesley, Joshua, Drew, Casey and Brady Sawyer; and three step grandchildren: Brittany, Courtney and Derrick Groff. He is also survived by four sisters: Ruth Harting of Stevens; Irene, wife of Elmer Dennis of Mount Joy; Elizabeth Moyer of Reinholds; and Joyce, wife of Dave Bowers of Ephrata.

He was preceded in death by a granddaughter: Ashley Sawyer and a sister: Mary Trostle.

A viewing was held on March 11, 2013 at the Roseboro Stradling Funeral Home, Denver. An additional viewing was held March 12 at the Mellingers Lutheran Church, 80 Gockley Road, Stevens, followed by funeral services at with Rev. Timothy L. Craven officiating. Burial took place in the Mellingers Union Cemetery.